A 7.1 magnitude earthquake hit Yushu Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture in Northwest China early on April 14.

UCC/Global Ministries partner, Amity Foundation, reports the quake struck Yushu County at 7:49 a.m. with a depth of about 33 km. The epicenter was only 30 km away from the downtown area of Yushu County of Yushu Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture. And there have been many aftershocks. A multitude of schools and homes have collapsed. The initial death toll is reported to be 400 with over 10,000 injured.

An Amity emergency assessment team is preparing to travel and will reach the Yushu area tomorrow morning. There they will be met by Qinghai Science and Technology Association, Amity's local partner in the area and travel nonstop to the quake-hit area. The group will put up tents and carry out need-based assessment. Results of the assessment will be communicated to Xining where the rescue and needy goods are to be purchased.

An immediate One Great Hour of Sharing Emergency Solidarity grant is being wired to Amity Foundation today.

How Can I Help?

1. Pray for the people of Yushu Province, their leaders, Amity staff and all emergency response workers.

2. Please help the people of Yushu Province by sending gifts payable to your congregation marked for China Earthquake with the request they be sent through your Conference office on to Wider Church Ministries.

OR

Send gifts, made out to United Church of Christ and marked in the memo portion "China Earthquake" to Wider Church Ministries; 700 Prospect Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44115.

OR

Make a secure online donation to the International Emergency Fund, please note "China Earthquake" in the comments section.